The Tañon Strait Protected Seascape (TSPS)–North East Negros (NEN) received a new patrol boat, worth P2.9 million, from the TSPS–Protected Area Management Office (PAMO) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region VII Oct. 7.
The motorized boat, called Defender 3, with a passenger capacity of 12, is designed for coastal and inter-island navigation, and will dock at the San Carlos City Fish Landing Center.
PENRO officer-in-charge Catherine Balasa said she is thankful that the patrol boat was officially turned over to them, and that Mayor Renato Gustilo allowed it to dock at the fish landing area.
She added that the boat is a big help to them, especially during joint seaborne patrol operations with the Bantay Dagat Task Force of the local government around the TSPS.
Gustilo said in a statement Oct. 9 that the turnover is a meaningful step for marine protection since Defender 3 “will support ongoing efforts to safeguard our seas”.
This addition will strengthen joint patrols with the Bantay Dagat Task Force, and help ensure the continued protection of our coastal and marine resources, he stressed. ||
